Hi mdl100,

Update chipset drivers on the computer from the below link:

http://dell.to/101gSCD

If the above steps do not work, You may also reinstall USB controllers and check if the issue persists.

To remove and reinstall all USB controllers, follow these steps:

• From the Start screen, swipe up and tap the All apps icon.
• If you have a mouse, right-click on the Start screen and then click All apps.
• Once on the Apps screen, scroll or swipe to the right until you see the Windows System heading.
• Tap or click on Control Panel, located under Windows System.
• Windows 8 will bring up the Desktop and automatically open the Control Panel.
• Tap or click on the Hardware and Sound link.
•  In the Hardware and Sound window, click or tap Device Manager, located under the Devices and Printers heading.
• ExpandUniversal Serial Bus controllers.
• Right-click every device under theUniversal Serial Bus controllers node, and then clickUninstall to remove them one at a time.
• Restart the computer, and then reinstall the USB controllers.
• Plug in the removable USB storage device, and then test to make sure that the issue is resolved.

Refer the following link which has more troubleshooting steps for USB:

http://dell.to/Zopa7O

http://bit.ly/XtMoN1

http://bit.ly/ntpiWo

Awaiting your response!

Hi Rajesh,

thanks for the response. I did a re-install of the USB controllers and updated the chipset drivers. Things look a bit better but I need to do more testing. I'll report back when I have done so.

Thanks

Michael

Hi Rajesh,

took a while to do all the testing. In the end it seems that nothing has worked. Things are a bit better but no matter what the external drives drop off. The eSATA port lasts the longest which may be understandable since it gives more power.

Any other suggestions?